Four Tips for Coping with Sleep Apnea

Living with sleep apnea can be challenging, but with the right information and support, you can manage this condition and improve your overall well-being. Core Products International, trusted leaders in sleep solutions and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) products, are here to help. Sleep apnea is more than just snoring or occasional restlessness - it’s a serious medical condition where your breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep. These pauses in breathing can prevent your body and brain from getting enough oxygen, leading to potentially serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart problems, and type 2 diabetes if left untreated.

The good news? There are steps you can take to reduce risks, live more comfortably, and manage sleep apnea effectively. Here are four important tips:

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Did you know that about half of the people diagnosed with sleep apnea are overweight? According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, carrying extra weight - especially around the neck - can contribute to blocked airways and worsen sleep apnea. That’s why it’s essential to keep a close eye on your weight.

Make regular appointments with your healthcare provider for checkups and weigh-ins. If weight loss is necessary, don’t be afraid to talk with your doctor about safe, effective programs that can help. Even losing a small amount of weight can make a noticeable difference in your symptoms. Regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in whole foods can also support better sleep and overall health. If sleep apnea runs in your family, maintaining a healthy weight is even more crucial to minimizing your risk.

2. Quit Smoking

If you smoke, you’ve likely heard all the reasons why quitting is a good idea. But here’s another reason to add to the list: smokers are three times more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is the most common type of sleep apnea and occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep.

Smoking irritates and inflames the tissues in your throat and airway, making them more prone to swelling and obstruction. By quitting smoking, you’ll not only improve your overall health but also reduce the severity of your sleep apnea symptoms. If you’ve tried to quit before, don’t give up! There are countless resources and programs available to help, from nicotine replacement therapies to counseling and support groups.

3. Know Your Family History

Family history can play a significant role in sleep apnea. If you have close relatives - such as parents or siblings - who suffer from sleep apnea, you may be at a higher risk of developing it yourself.

Talk to your family members and learn about their health histories. If sleep apnea is present in your family, make sure to mention this to your healthcare provider. Early screening and monitoring can catch symptoms before they escalate. Understanding your genetic risk can also help you make lifestyle adjustments early on, potentially preventing the onset or severity of sleep apnea.

4. Reduce Alcohol Intake

Enjoying a glass of wine or a cocktail now and then is fine for most people, but excessive alcohol consumption can worsen sleep apnea. Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your throat, increasing the likelihood of airway blockages and interrupted breathing during sleep.

If you have sleep apnea, it’s a good idea to limit alcohol, especially in the evening hours before bed. Cutting back can reduce the severity of your symptoms and help you get more restful, uninterrupted sleep. Additionally, reducing alcohol intake has many other health benefits, including improved heart health and better mental clarity.

Enhance Your Comfort with CPAP Pillows

While lifestyle changes are essential, many people with sleep apnea rely on CPAP therapy to help keep their airways open at night. However, getting used to a CPAP machine can sometimes be uncomfortable - especially when it comes to finding the right sleeping position.

That’s where Core Products International can help. We offer specially designed pillows to help CPAP users sleep more comfortably:

• Core® CPAP Pillow: This full-sized pillow is carefully engineered to reduce mask leaks and facial pressure; its contoured design allows for better alignment of your head and neck, making it easier to get a good night’s sleep with your CPAP mask on.
• Core® Mini CPAP Pillow: This travel-friendly option is compact and features a unique shape that prevents the CPAP mask from shifting or digging into your face during the night. Whether you’re on the go or just need a smaller option, the Mini CPAP Pillow is designed with your comfort in mind.

Both pillows help CPAP users avoid the discomfort and frustration of mask leaks, face soreness, and interrupted sleep. Investing in a CPAP-specific pillow can make a world of difference in how effective and comfortable your treatment is.

A Treatable Condition

While there is currently no cure for sleep apnea, it’s important to remember that it is highly treatable. CPAP therapy, combined with healthy lifestyle choices, can dramatically improve your sleep and reduce the risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.

If you have any questions or want more information about our CPAP pillows or products, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team at Core Products is happy to help. Contact us at 800-365-3047 or email:  customerservice@coreproducts.com.

Take control of your sleep apnea today -because better sleep means a better life!

Resources:
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-apnea
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sleep-apnea/DS00148/DSECTION=risk-factors 
http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/sleep-apnea